Internet subscription management in a cellular-based network

ABSTRACT

This disclosure is directed to techniques for directly managing, via a cellular modem device, an in-home Internet service subscription plan for using an in-home Internet service from a wireless carrier network. The cellular modem device may facilitate adjustment of the in-home Internet subscription plan by monitoring Internet service usage at the cellular modem device and then comparing a monitored Internet service usage with a corresponding threshold value. Based on this comparison, the cellular modem device may present to the subscriber a selection that correspond to different adjustments in the subscription plan. The cellular modem device may then send a request for adjustment to Internet service provider based on a user-entered selection and a notification is thereafter received by the cellular modem device for the adjustment of the subscription plan by the Internet service provider.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No.17/191,167, filed Mar. 3, 2021, and titled “Internet SubscriptionManagement in a Cellular-Based Network,” which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Internet access over a wireless telecommunications network is becomingprevalent due to advances in wireless technologies and user convenienceof accessing high-speed Internet from portable devices such as acellphone, laptop, and/or the like. While the accessibility of Internetaccess over the wireless telecommunications network is continuouslyimproving, most subscribers generally select subscription plans based onthe prices of the subscription plans. The subscribers may change to adifferent subscription plan after a particular period depending upontheir average consumption and financial needs. Accordingly, thesubscribers oftentimes may access their respective accounts and checkfor possible improvements or optimizations in their current subscriptionplan.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanyingfigures, in which the left-most digit(s) of a reference numberidentifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. Theuse of the same reference numbers in different figures indicates similaror identical items.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example architecture that uses a cellular modemdevice to manage an in-home Internet service subscription plan for usingan in-home Internet service from a wireless carrier network.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing various components of the cellularmodem device that are configured to facilitate adjustments in thein-home Internet service subscription plans.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing various components of an Internetservice server that perform the adjustments in the in-home Internetservice subscription plans in response to adjustment requests from thecellular modem device.

FIG. 4 shows an example configuration interface displayed on thecellular modem device for configuring the cellular modem device torequest adjustments in the in-home Internet service subscription plans.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of an example process for the cellular modemdevice to manage the in-home Internet service subscription plans.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an example process for the cellular modemdevice to facilitate adjustments in a download speed limit of thein-home Internet service subscription plans.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an example process for the cellular modemdevice to facilitate adjustments in an upload speed limit of the in-homeInternet service subscription plans.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of an example process for the cellular modemdevice to purchase an additional data download amount for the in-homeInternet service subscription plans.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of an example process for the cellular modemdevice to manage the in-home Internet service subscription plans.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure is directed to techniques for managing, via a cellularmodem device, an in-home Internet service subscription plan for using anin-home Internet service from a wireless carrier network. The cellularmodem device is an electronic communication device that may connect arouter and/or other user devices to an Internet service provider overthe wireless carrier network. The user devices may include electroniccommunication devices such as a smartphone, smart television, a smartspeaker, a laptop, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a multimediadevice, a tablet, or any other similar functioning device. The wirelesscarrier network may be operated by a wireless communication carrier thatprovides Internet access. When providing Internet access, the wirelesscommunication carrier can be referred to as an Internet serviceprovider.

In one example, the cellular modem device may facilitate adjustments inthe in-home Internet service subscription plan (referred to hereinafteras subscription plan) by monitoring an Internet service usage at thecellular modem device and then comparing a monitored Internet serviceusage with a corresponding threshold (value). Based on this comparison,the cellular modem device may present, via its user interface,subscription plan change options to a subscriber. Each of thesubscription plan change options may correspond to a request for anadjustment in one or more features associated with the subscriptionplan. The subscriber may then enter a selected subscription plan changeoption on the user interface, and the cellular modem device sends asubscription plan change request to the Internet service provider. Inresponse to a received subscription plan change request from thecellular modem device, the Internet service provider may adjust thesubscription plan and send a notification of the adjustment of thesubscription plan to the cellular modem device. Alternatively, thecellular modem device may use a connected user device for presenting thesubscription plan change options, receiving user-entered selections,and/or displaying the notifications of the adjustment of thesubscription plan. This technique of managing the subscription plan viathe cellular modem device may improve user experience and increasebusiness revenues of the Internet service provider, which typicallysupplies the cellular modem devices to the subscribers.

In one embodiment, one or more features that may be associated with thesubscription plan include a current download speed limit, a currentupload speed limit, a download data cap for a billing period, or anupload data cap for a billing period. The billing period may include abilling cycle for a purchased subscription, which can be a monthlysubscription, an annual subscription, or some other periodicsubscription. In this embodiment, the subscription plan change requestfor the adjustment in the one or more features may correspond toupgrading to a higher download or upload speed limit, downgrading to alower download or upload speed limit, purchasing an additional datadownload amount for the current billing period, or purchasing anadditional data upload amount for the current billing period. Furtherexample implementations are provided below with reference to thefollowing figures.

Example Architecture

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example architecture 100 that uses a cellularmodem device to manage a subscription plan for using an in-home Internetservice from a wireless carrier network. The architecture 100illustrates, for example, a cellular modem device 102 that may include asubscription plan 104, one or more features 106, and a subscriptionmanagement application 108. The cellular modem device 102 may connectuser devices such as a smart television 110, a smart speaker 112, and asmartphone 114 to a wireless communication carrier 116. The wirelesscommunication carrier 116 may provide Internet access and can bereferred to as an Internet service provider. In one embodiment, thecellular modem device 102 may be used to adjust the one or more features106 associated with the subscription plan 104 that is purchased by asubscriber 118. Instead of using a laptop, a cellphone, and/or similardevices to access an Internet service provider's website to adjust theone or more features associated with the purchased subscription plan,the use of the cellular modem device 102 may improve user experience andfurther enhances the business of the wireless communication carrier 116as the Internet service provider. The features 106 may includeparameters or settings associated with the subscription plan 104. On theother hand, the subscription plan 104 may include an in-home Internetservice that is purchased by the subscriber 118 from the wirelesscommunication carrier 116.

The wireless communication carrier 116 may include a platform thatprovides Internet access to organizations or individuals such as thesubscriber 118. The wireless communication carrier 116 may operate awireless carrier network that can provide the Internet access and a widerange of mobile communication services, as well as ancillary servicesand features, to subscribers and associated mobile device users. Thiswireless carrier network may be implemented using multipleinterconnected networks. In one example, the wireless carrier networkmay include multiple Radio Access Networks (RANs) that may be connectedvia regional ground networks. In turn, the regional ground networks maybe connected to a core network by a wide area network (WAN). Thewireless carrier network may provide telecommunication and datacommunication in accordance with one or more technical standards, suchas Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), Wideband Code DivisionMultiple Access (W-CDMA), High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA), Long TermEvolution (LTE), CDMA-2000 (Code Division Multiple Access 2000), 5G,and/or so forth. In some instances, the wireless communication carrier116 can be referred to as Internet service provider. In other cases, thewireless communication carrier 116 may be an Internet service serverthat is operated by the Internet service provider.

The cellular modem device 102 is communicatively connected to thewireless communication carrier 116 through a radio frequency (RF)-basedcommunication network such as a cellular communication interface. Thecellular modem device 102 may also connect with the other user devicessuch as the smart television 110, smart speaker 112, and smartphone 114via a direct communication interface such as WiFi™, Bluetooth®, Zigbee™,and/or the like. The cellular modem device 102 may use the subscriptionmanagement application 108 to manage the subscription plan 104 for usingthe Internet service that is provided by the wireless communicationcarrier 116.

In various embodiments, the subscription management application 108 is aprogram installed in the cellular modem device 102 that controlsmonitoring of the Internet service usage at the cellular modem device102. By monitoring the Internet service usage, the cellular modem device102 may obtain and store usage parameter measurements such as a downloadbandwidth utilization measurement, an upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement, a current total amount of data downloaded during a currentbilling period, and/or a current total amount of data uploaded duringthe current billing period. In some instances, the cellular modem device102 may send the obtained usage parameter measurements to the wirelesscommunication carrier 116 for storage and/or further processing.

The download bandwidth utilization measurement may include an averagedownload speed that is measured (or monitored) by the cellular modemdevice 102 within a predetermined time period in a current billingperiod. The predetermined time period is a portion of the currentbilling period and can have unit values of days, hours, or other timeperiods. For example, within a predetermined time period of ten days ina current 30-day billing period, a measured average daily download speedis 50 Mbps. This measured average daily download speed can also beexpressed as a percentage of a maximum download speed limit that isassociated with the subscription plan 104. For example, the maximumdownload speed limit for the subscription plan 104 is 100 Mbps. In thisexample, the measured average daily download speed of 50 Mbps can beexpressed as 50% of the 100 Mbps−subscribed maximum download speed. Inthese examples, the 50 Mbps or 50% average daily download speed is thedownload bandwidth utilization measurement for the particular Internetservice usage.

The upload bandwidth utilization measurement may include an averageupload speed limit that is measured by the cellular modem device 102within the predetermined time period in the current billing period. Forexample, within a predetermined time period of ten days in a current30-day billing period, a measured average daily upload speed is 8 Mbps.Similarly, this measured average daily upload speed can be expressed asa percentage of a maximum upload speed limit that is associated with thesubscription plan 104. For example, the average upload speed over theten-day period is 8 Mbps, and the maximum upload speed limit associatedwith the subscription plan 104 is 10 Mbps. In this example, the averageupload speed over the ten-day period can be expressed as 80% of the 10Mbps−subscribed maximum upload speed. In these examples, the 8 Mbps or80% average upload speed is the upload bandwidth utilization measurementfor the particular Internet service usage.

The current total amount of data downloaded during the current billingperiod may include the amount of data received by the cellular modemdevice 102 since a start of a cycle for the current billing period. Thecurrent total amount of data uploaded during the current billing periodmay include the amount of data transferred by the cellular modem device102 since the start of the cycle for the current billing period.

Following the obtaining of the usage parameter measurements, thesubscription management application 108 may compare each of the obtainedusage parameter measurements with a corresponding plan parameterthreshold. The plan parameter thresholds may be supplied by the Internetservice provider and can include a preconfigured limit for each of theusage parameter measurements. The plan parameter thresholds may includea download bandwidth utilization measurement threshold (value), anupload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold (value), a downloaddata cap for a billing period, an upload data cap for a billing period,and/or a time duration threshold (value) for a selected subscriptionplan change option.

The download bandwidth utilization measurement threshold may include themaximum download speed limit that is associated with the subscriptionplan 104. The download bandwidth utilization measurement threshold canalso include a percentage only of the maximum download speed limit. Thepercentage of the maximum download speed limit may further includedifferent levels of download speed limit such as an upper download speedlimit or a lower download speed limit. The upper download speed limitmay include a certain portion of the maximum download speed limit thatcan be used, for example, as a reference for purchasing a plan thatcorresponds to upgrading to a higher download speed limit. The lowerdownload speed limit may include a smaller portion of the maximumdownload speed limit that can be used, for example, as a reference forpurchasing a plan that corresponds to downgrading to a lower downloadspeed limit.

For example, the maximum download speed limit for the currentsubscription plan is 100 Mbps. In this example, the download bandwidthutilization measurement threshold can be the maximum download speedlimit of 100 Mbps. Alternatively, the download bandwidth utilizationmeasurement threshold can be a percentage only of the 100 Mbps maximumdownload speed limit. The use of the percentage can further providedifferent levels of download speed limit such as 90% of the 100 Mbps forthe upper download speed limit or 50% of the 100 Mbps for the lowerdownload speed limit. The upper or lower download speed limit isreferred to herein as the upper or lower download bandwidth utilizationmeasurement threshold, respectively. In some instances, the upperdownload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold can actuallyinclude the value of the maximum download speed limit associated withthe subscription plan 104. In other cases, different tiers (orpercentages) of download bandwidth utilization threshold can be utilizedand corresponding different subscription plan change options may bepreconfigured for each of the tiers of download bandwidth utilizationthreshold.

The upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold may include themaximum upload speed limit that is associated with the subscription plan104. The upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold can also bea percentage only of the maximum upload speed limit. The use of thepercentage of the maximum upload speed limit may further providedifferent levels of upload speed limits such as an upper upload speedlimit and a lower upload speed limit. The upper upload speed limit mayinclude a particular portion of the maximum upload speed limit that canbe used, for example, as a reference for purchasing a plan thatcorresponds to upgrading to a higher upload speed limit. The lowerupload speed limit may include a smaller percentage of the maximumupload speed limit that can be used, for example, as a reference forpurchasing a plan that corresponds to downgrading to a lower uploadspeed limit.

For example, the maximum upload speed limit for the subscription plan is10 Mbps. In this example, the upload bandwidth utilization measurementthreshold can be 10 Mbps or a percentage only of the 10 Mbps−maximumupload speed limit. The percentage can further provide different levelsof upload speed limit such as 80% of the 10 Mbps for the upper uploadspeed limit or 50% of the 10 Mbps for the lower upload speed limit. Theupper or lower upload speed limit is referred to herein as the upper orlower upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold, respectively.In some cases, the upper upload bandwidth utilization measurementthreshold can include the maximum upload speed limit associated with thesubscription plan. Further, different tiers (or percentages) of uploadbandwidth utilization threshold can also be utilized at the cellularmodem device 102 and as such, corresponding different subscription planchange options may be preconfigured for each of the tiers of uploadbandwidth utilization threshold.

The time duration threshold for the selected subscription plan changeoption may include a time limit of an adjusted subscription plan. Aftera lapse of the time duration threshold, the cellular modem device 102may revert to its previous subscription plan or default subscriptionplan. For example, the adjustment in the subscription plan includesupgrading to a higher download speed limit with a time limit that endson the last day of the current billing period. In this example, thesubscription plan 104 may revert to a default download speed limit orthe previous download speed limit after the lapse of the last day of thecurrent billing period.

In an embodiment, the subscription management application 108 maydetermine one or more preconfigured subscription plan change options tobe presented to the subscriber 118 based on the comparisons between eachof the usage parameter measurements and the corresponding plan parameterthreshold. The one or more preconfigured subscription plan changeoptions may be supplied by the wireless communications carrier 116.Further, each of the preconfigured subscription plan change options maycorrespond to an adjustment in one or more features of the subscriptionplan 104.

In one example, the features 106 that are associated with thesubscription plan 104 may include a current download speed limit, acurrent upload speed limit, a download data cap for a billing period, oran upload data cap for a billing period. Based upon the comparisonsbetween each of the usage parameter measurements and the correspondingplan parameter threshold, the one or more preconfigured subscriptionplan change options to be presented to the subscriber may correspond toupgrading to a higher download or upload speed limit, downgrading to alower download or upload speed limit, purchasing an additional datadownload amount, and/or purchasing an additional data upload amount.These preconfigured subscription plan change options may be presented tothe subscriber 118 via a user interface (not shown) of the cellularmodem device 102 or through a connected user device such as the smarttelevision 110, smart speaker 112, and/or smartphone 114.

In one embodiment, the subscription management application 108 maypresent, via the user interface, an interface menu that enables thesubscriber 118 to submit a request, such as a subscription plan changerequest 120, to the wireless communication carrier 116. The subscriptionplan change request 120 may include information about the subscriber118, device identification of the cellular modem device 102, theselected subscription plan change option, information about thesubscription plan, and/or other information that relates to theadjustment of the subscription plan such as the number of days in thepredetermined time period, current usage parameter measurementthresholds, and/or the like. In response to a received subscription planchange request 120, the wireless communication carrier 116 may performthe adjustment in the one or more features of the subscription plan 104and send a subscription plan adjustment notification 130 to the cellularmodem device 102. The subscription plan adjustment notification 130 mayindicate the adjustment in the subscription plan 104. In some instances,the wireless communication carrier 116 may also send new plan parameterthresholds that correspond to the adjustments in the subscription plan104. Upon receipt of the subscription plan adjustment notification 130,the cellular modem device 102 may present the notification to thesubscriber 118 via the user interface of the cellular modem device 102or through the connected user devices.

In one embodiment, the subscription management application 108 may becommunicatively connected to a device application 140 of the smarttelevision 110, a speaker application 142 of the smart speaker 112,and/or a smartphone application 144 of the smartphone 114. In thisembodiment, the cellular modem device 102 may use the smart television110, smart speaker 112, and/or smartphone 114 as an input or outputinterface for managing the subscription plan 104. For example, thecellular modem device 102 may use the connected user device to presentthe subscription plan change options, notifications, usage parametermeasurements, and/or other information that relates to the management ofthe subscription plan 104. In another example, the cellular modem device102 may use the connected user device to accept user-entered selectionand/or other user-entered input that relates to the management of thesubscription plan 104.

The device application 140 may allow the smart television 110 tointeract with other devices such as the cellular modem device 102. Inone example, the device application 140 may allow the cellular modemdevice 102 to control and direct the smart television 110 to performfunctions that relate to the management of the subscription plan 104 bythe cellular modem device. For example, the device application 140 maypresent, via a screen of the smart television, an interface menu thatenables the subscriber 118 to submit a request, such as the subscriptionplan change request 120, via the cellular modem device 102. Thesubscriber 118 may view and scroll the interface menu on the screen ofthe smart television 110 and select, for example, a subscription planchange option. Based upon a user-entered selection on the interfacemenu, the device application 140 may send the user-entered selection tothe cellular modem device 102. In another example, the deviceapplication 140 may present an audible interface menu and the subscribercan interact with the smart television 110 via voice inputs. In theseexamples, the interface menu may present visual and audible notificationmessages regarding plan usage under the direction of the cellular modemdevice 102, as well as menus and virtual selection buttons that enablethe subscriber to select the presented subscription plan change options.Following a user-entered selection on the interface menu, the deviceapplication 140 sends the selection to the cellular modem device 102 forfurther processing.

The speaker application 142 may allow the smart speaker 112 to respondto voice commands and to establish communications with other devicessuch as the smart television 110 and the cellular modem device 102. Inone example, the speaker application 142 may allow the cellular modemdevice 102 to control and direct the smart speaker 112 to performfunctions that relate to the management of the subscription plan 104 bythe cellular modem device. For example, the speaker application 142 mayinclude access to a text-to-speech function to translate thesubscription plan change options, notifications, messages, or similarinformation into a speech so that the subscriber 118 may be able to hearthe different subscription plan change options, notifications, messages,and/or similar information. In another example, the speaker application142 may include access to a voice command function that is able toreceive a speech input and use a speech-to-text function to translatethe speech input into a corresponding text equivalent input. In theseexamples, the speaker application 142 may send and/or receiveinformation from the cellular modem device 102 that relates to themanagement of the subscription plan 104.

The smartphone application 144 may be installed in the smartphone 114 toestablish communications with other devices such as the cellular modemdevice 102, smart television 110, and/or the smart speaker 112. In oneexample, the smartphone application 144 may allow the cellular modemdevice 102 to control and direct the smartphone 114 to perform functionsthat relate to the management of the subscription plan 104 by thecellular modem device. For example, the smartphone application 144 maypresent an interface menu that enables the subscriber 118 to submit arequest, such as the subscription plan change request 120, via thecellular modem device 102. The subscriber 118 may view and scroll theinterface menu on a user interface of the smartphone 114 and select, forexample, a subscription plan change option. Based upon a user-enteredselection on the interface menu, the smartphone application 144 may sendthe user-entered selection to the cellular modem device 102. In anotherexample, the smartphone application 144 may present audible interfacemenu and the subscriber can interact with the smartphone via voiceinputs. In these examples, the interface menu may present visual andaudible notification messages regarding plan usage under the directionof the cellular modem device 102, as well as menus and virtual selectionbuttons that enable the subscriber to select the presented subscriptionplan change options. Following a user-entered selection on the interfacemenu, the smartphone application 144 sends the selection to the cellularmodem device 102 for further processing.

Alternatively, the wireless communication carrier 116 as an Internetservice server may perform the functionalities of managing theadjustments in the subscription plans. In particular, the Internetservice server may receive usage parameter measurements from thecellular modem device 102 and compare the received usage parametermeasurements with the corresponding usage parameter thresholds. Basedupon this comparison, the Internet service server may display the one ormore preconfigured subscription plan change options via the cellularmodem device 102 or the user devices (e.g., smart television 110, smartspeaker 112, and/or smartphone 114). The Internet service server maythen receive the subscription plan change request 120 and adjustaccordingly the subscription plan based upon the subscription planchange request. In some cases, the Internet service server may receivefirst the subscription plan change request 120 before performing thecomparison and the sending of the one or more preconfigured subscriptionplan change options to the cellular modem device 102. Following theadjustment of the subscription plan, the Internet service server maysend the subscription plan adjustment notification 130 and the new usageparameter thresholds that correspond to the adjustments in thesubscription plan. Further details for managing the subscription planare described in subsequent figures.

Example Cellular Modem Device Components

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing various components of a cellular modemdevice 200 that is configured to manage the subscription plan purchasedby the subscriber from the Internet service provider. The cellular modemdevice 200 corresponds to the cellular modem device 102 of FIG. 1 . Thecellular modem device 200 may include a communication interface 202, oneor more sensors 204, a user interface 206, one or more processors 208,memory 210, and device hardware 212. The communication interface 202 mayinclude wireless and/or wired communication components that enable thecellular modem device to transmit or receive voice or data communicationvia the wireless carrier network, as well as other telecommunicationand/or data communication networks. The sensors 204 may include abandwidth measurement sensor, signal strength sensor, latency sensor,cameras, and/or a global positioning system (GPS) sensor, among otherappropriate sensors. The bandwidth measurement sensor may perform usageparameter measurements. The signal strength sensor may detect signalpower in the cellular communication interface and/or directcommunication interface. The latency sensor may detect a quality ofconnection at the cellular modem device. The cameras may capture imagesof the environment while the GPS sensor may detect orientation,movement, and geolocation of the cellular modem device 200.

The user interface 206 may enable a subscriber to enter inputs and readoutputs from the cellular modem device 200. The user interface 206 mayinclude a data output device (e.g., visual display, audio speakers), andone or more data input devices. The data input devices may include butare not limited to, combinations of one or more keypads, keyboards,mouse devices, touch screens, microphones, speech recognition packages,and any other suitable devices or other electronic/software selectionmethods. In one example, the user interface 206 may present Internetservice usage, details of the subscription plan, the subscription planchange options that may be received from the Internet service provider,and/or other information that relates to the management of thesubscription plan by the cellular modem device 200.

The memory 210 may be implemented using computer-readable media, such ascomputer storage media. Computer-readable media includes, at least, twotypes of computer-readable media, namely computer storage media andcommunications media. Computer storage media includes volatile andnon-volatile, removable, and non-removable media implemented in anymethod or technology for storage of information such ascomputer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, orother data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM,ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digitalversatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes,magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices,or any other non-transmission medium that can be used to storeinformation for access by a computing device. In contrast, communicationmedia may embody computer-readable instructions, data structures,program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as acarrier wave, or other transmission mechanisms.

The device hardware 212 may include a modem that enables the cellularmodem device 200 to perform data communication with the wireless carriernetwork. The device hardware 212 may further include signal converters(e.g., a digital-to-analog converter, an analog-to-digital converter),antennas, hardware decoders, and encoders, graphics processors, auniversal integrated circuit card (UICC) or an embedded UICC (eUICC),and/or the like, that enable the cellular modem device 200 to executeapplications and provide data communication functions.

The one or more processors 208 and the memory 210 may implement anoperating system 214, device software 216, and a subscription managementapplication 220 that corresponds to the subscription managementapplication 108 of FIG. 1 . Such software may include routines, programinstructions, objects, and/or data structures that are executed by theprocessors 208 to perform particular tasks or implement particularabstract data types. The one or more processors 208 in conjunction withthe subscription management application 220 may further operate andutilize a threshold value module 222, parameter detector module 224,plan option presenter module 226, plan request module 228, and a datastorage 230 to request an adjustment in the subscription plan.

The operating system 214 may include components that enable the cellularmodem device 200 to receive and transmit data via various interfaces(e.g., user controls, communication interface 202, and/or memoryinput/output devices). The operating system 214 may also process datausing the one or more processors 208 to generate outputs based on inputsthat are received via the user interface 206. For example, the operatingsystem 214 may provide an execution environment for the execution of thesubscription management application 220. The operating system 214 mayinclude a presentation component that presents the output (e.g., displaythe data on an electronic display, store the data in memory, transmitthe data to another electronic device, etc.).

The operating system 214 may include an interface layer that enables thesubscription management application 220 to interface with the modemand/or the communication interface 202. The interface layer may comprisepublic APIs, private APIs, or a combination of both public APIs andprivate APIs. Additionally, the operating system 214 may include othercomponents that perform various other functions generally associatedwith an operating system. The device software 216 may include softwarecomponents that enable the user device to perform functions. Forexample, the device software 216 may include a basic input/output system(BIOS), bootrom, or a bootloader that boots up the cellular modem device200 and executes the operating system 214 following power-up of thedevice.

The threshold value module 222 may store the plan parameter thresholdsthat may be received from the Internet service server, such as Internetservice server 300 of FIG. 3 . For example, the Internet service servermay send the plan parameter thresholds for a subscription plan to thesubscription management application 220 when the subscriber signs up foran initial subscription plan. In another example, following theadjustment of the subscription plan by the Internet service server, thethreshold value module 222 may receive and store new plan parameterthresholds corresponding to the adjustments in the subscription plan.The received plan parameter thresholds may include the downloadbandwidth utilization measurement threshold, upload bandwidthutilization measurement threshold, download data cap for a billingperiod, upload data cap for a billing period, and/or the time durationthreshold for the selected subscription plan change option.

The download bandwidth utilization measurement threshold may includedifferent levels of download speed limit. In one example, the downloadbandwidth utilization measurement threshold is preconfigured to includethe maximum download speed limit that is associated with the currentsubscription plan. In another example, the download bandwidthutilization measurement threshold is preconfigured to include apercentage only of the maximum download speed limit. When the percentageof the maximum download speed limit is used, different tiers of downloadbandwidth utilization measurement thresholds may be provided. Forexample, the upper download bandwidth utilization measurement thresholdmay be preconfigured to use 90% of the maximum download speed limit. Inanother example, the lower download bandwidth utilization measurementthreshold may be preconfigured to use 50% of the maximum download speedlimit. In these examples, the upper and download bandwidth utilizationmeasurement thresholds may be used as references for differentsubscription plan change options to be presented to the subscriber. Forexample, the subscription plan change option may correspond to upgradingto a higher download speed limit when the measured average downloadspeed limit exceeds the upper download bandwidth utilization measurementthreshold. Conversely, the subscription plan change option maycorrespond to downgrading to a lower download speed limit when themeasured average download speed limit is lower than the lower downloadbandwidth utilization measurement threshold.

The upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold may includedifferent levels of upload speed limit. In one example, the uploadbandwidth utilization measurement threshold is preconfigured to includethe maximum upload speed limit that is associated with the currentsubscription plan. In another example, the upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement threshold is preconfigured to include a percentage only ofthe maximum upload speed limit. When the percentage of the maximumupload speed limit is used, different tiers of upload bandwidthutilization measurement thresholds may be provided. For example, theupper upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold may bepreconfigured to use 90% of the maximum upload speed limit. In anotherexample, the lower upload bandwidth utilization measurement thresholdmay be preconfigured to use 50% of the maximum upload speed limit. Inthese examples, the upper and upload bandwidth utilization measurementthresholds may be used as references for different subscription planchange options to be presented to the subscriber. For example, thesubscription plan change option may correspond to upgrading to a higherupload speed limit when the measured average upload speed limit exceedsthe upper upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold.Conversely, the subscription plan change option may correspond todowngrading to a lower upload speed limit when the measured averageupload speed limit is lower than the lower upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement threshold.

The download data cap may include the total amount of data that can bedownloaded for the current billing period. The upload data cap maysimilarly include the total amount of data that can be uploaded duringthe current billing period. The time duration threshold for the selectedsubscription plan change option may include the time period associatedwith the use of the adjustment subscription plan. Upon the lapse of thistime period, the cellular device may receive a notification of areversion back to the previous subscription plan or default subscriptionplan.

The parameter detector module 224 is configured to obtain usageparameter measurements at the cellular modem device 200. In one example,the parameter detector module 224 may use the sensors 204 to monitor theusage parameter measurements during the current billing period. Theusage parameter measurements may include the download bandwidthutilization measurement during the predetermined time period, uploadbandwidth utilization measurement during the predetermined time period,the current total amount of data downloaded during the current billingperiod, or the current total amount of data uploaded during the currentbilling period. These monitored usage parameter measurements may bestored in the data storage 230. In some embodiments, the monitored usageparameter measurements may be communicated to the Internet serviceserver such as the Internet service server 300 of FIG. 3 for storage orfurther processing.

The download bandwidth utilization measurement may include the averagedownload speed that is measured at the cellular modem device within thepredetermined time period in the current billing period. For example,within a predetermined time period of ten days in a current 30-daybilling period, the average daily download speed is 50 Mbps. In thisexample, the 50 Mbps is the download bandwidth utilization measurementwithin the predetermined time period. In some instances, the downloadbandwidth utilization measurement within the predetermined time periodcan be expressed as the percentage of the maximum download speed limitthat is associated with the subscription plan. The percentage−unit valuemay be used when the corresponding download bandwidth utilizationmeasurement threshold is also utilizing a percentage−unit value. Forexample, the download bandwidth utilization measurement threshold is 80%of the 100 Mbps maximum download speed limit threshold while theobtained download bandwidth utilization measurement is 50 Mbps, which is50% of the 100 Mbps maximum download speed limit threshold. In thisexample, the percentage−unit value of the download bandwidth utilizationmeasurement (50%) may be used for comparison with the percentage−unitvalue of the download bandwidth utilization measurement threshold (80%).

The upload bandwidth utilization measurement may include the averageupload speed that is measured at the cellular modem device within thepredetermined time period in the current billing period. For example,within a predetermined time period of ten days in a current 30-daybilling period, the average daily upload speed is 10 Mbps. In thisexample, the 10 Mbps is the upload bandwidth utilization measurementwithin the predetermined time period. In some instances, the uploadbandwidth utilization measurement within the predetermined time periodcan be expressed as the percentage of the maximum upload speed limitthat is associated with the subscription plan. The percentage−unit valuemay be used when the corresponding upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement threshold also includes a percentage−unit value. Forexample, the upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold is 80%of the 10 Mbps maximum upload speed limit threshold while the obtainedupload bandwidth utilization measurement is 5 Mbps, which is 50% of the10 Mbps maximum upload speed limit threshold. In this example, thepercentage−unit value of the upload bandwidth utilization measurement(50%) may be used for comparison with the percentage−unit value of theupload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold (80%).

The plan option presenter module 226 may be configured to compare eachof the usage parameter measurements with the corresponding planparameter threshold. The plan option presenter module 226 may retrievethe usage parameter measurements and the corresponding plan parameterthresholds from the data storage 230 and the threshold value module 222,respectively. The plan option presenter module 226 may be furtherconfigured to present, via the user interface 206, the preconfigured oneor more subscription plan change options based upon the comparisonbetween each of the usage parameter measurements and the correspondingplan parameter threshold. The subscription plan change options may bereceived from the Internet service server and stored in the data storage230, or cellular modem device 200 may be access them from a database inthe Internet service server.

For example, the plan option presenter module 226 may retrieve andpresent one or more subscription plan change options from the datastorage 230 for upgrading to a first new subscription plan with a higherdownload speed limit when the comparison indicates that the downloadbandwidth utilization measurement during the predetermined time periodexceeded the upper download bandwidth utilization measurement threshold.In another example, the plan option presenter module 226 may present oneor more subscription plan change options for upgrading to a second newsubscription plan with a higher upload speed limit when the comparisonindicates that the upload bandwidth utilization measurement during thepredetermined time period exceeded the upper upload bandwidthutilization measurement threshold.

In one example, the plan option presenter module 226 may access andpresent one or more subscription plan change options from the databaseof the Internet service server for downgrading to a new subscriptionplan with a lower download speed limit when the comparison indicatesthat the download bandwidth utilization measurement during thepredetermined time period is lower than the lower download bandwidthutilization measurement threshold. Alternatively, the plan optionpresenter module 226 may present one or more subscription plan changeoptions for downgrading a new subscription plan with a lower uploadspeed limit when the comparison indicates that the upload bandwidthutilization measurement during the predetermined time period is lowerthan the lower upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold.

In another example, the plan option presenter module 226 may present oneor more subscription plan change options to purchase an additional datadownload amount when the comparison indicates that an average daily datadownload amount exceeds an available daily data download amount duringthe current billing period. In this example, the average daily datadownload amount is the current total amount of data downloaded duringthe current billing period divided by the number of days elapsed in thecurrent billing period while the available daily data download amount isthe download data cap for the current billing period divided by a totalnumber of days in the current billing period. Further, the plan optionpresenter module 226 may present one or more subscription plan changeoptions to purchase a subscription plan that includes a higher downloaddata cap for a next billing period when the comparison indicates thatthe average daily data download amount exceeds the available daily datadownload amount during the current billing period.

In some embodiments, the plan option presenter module 226 may presentone or more subscription plan change options to purchase an additionaldata upload amount when the comparison indicates that an average dailydata upload amount exceeds an available daily data upload amount duringthe current billing period. The average daily data upload amount is thecurrent total amount of data uploaded during the current billing perioddivided by the number of days elapsed in the current billing period, andthe available daily data upload amount is the upload data cap for thecurrent billing period divided by a total number of days in the currentbilling period. Further, the plan option presenter module 226 maypresent one or more subscription plan change options to purchase asubscription plan that includes a higher upload data cap for the nextbilling period when the comparison indicates that the average daily dataupload amount exceeds the available daily data upload amount during thecurrent billing period.

Following the presentation of the one or more subscription plan changeoptions to the subscriber via the user interface 206 or via theconnected user devices, the processor 208 may receive a selectedpreconfigured subscription plan change option from the subscriber. Theprocessor 208 may forward this selection to the subscription managementapplication 220, which in turn, sends this information to the planrequest module 228.

The plan request module 228 may be configured to send the subscriptionplan change request (e.g., subscription plan change request 120 of FIG.1 ) to the Internet service server based on the selected preconfiguredsubscription plan change option. In one example, the subscription planchange request may include the device identification of the cellularmodem device 200, the selected subscription plan change option, and/orother information that relates to the selection of the subscription planchange option. For example, the other information may relate to thedevice information of the user smartphone that may directly receivenotification of adjustment in the subscription plan from the Internetservice server (or Internet service provider). Following the sending ofthe subscription plan change request, the cellular modem device throughthe communication interface 202 may receive the notification for theadjustment in the subscription plan by the Internet service server.

The data storage 230 may store the obtained usage parametermeasurements, subscription plan and associated features, and the one ormore subscription plan change options that can be received from theInternet service server. In one example, the usage parametermeasurements are updated every time that the parameter detector module224 is performing usage parameter measurements on the Internet service.The data storage 230 may similarly store other data that may be takenvia the sensors 204. The other data may include signal strength, networklatency, and/or geolocation of the cellular modem device 200. In anotherexample, the data storage 230 may store the device identification of theconnected user devices such as the smart speaker, smart television, andsmartphone.

Accordingly, the one or more processors 208 in conjunction with thesubscription management application 220 may use the threshold valuemodule 222, parameter detector module 224, plan option presenter module226, plan request module 228, and the data storage 230 to manage thesubscriber plan of the subscriber as described herein.

Example Internet Service Provider Server Components

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing various components of an Internetservice server 300 that may adjust the subscriber's subscription planbased upon the subscription plan change request received from thecellular modem device. In one example, the Internet service server 300may initiate and perform an overall process of managing the subscriptionplan and utilizes the cellular modem and/or the connected user devicefor presentation and/or to communicate information to the subscriber.The information may relate to the management of the subscription plan.The Internet service server 300 may include a communication interface302, one or more processors 304, memory 306, and device hardware 308.The communication interface 302 may include wireless and/or wiredcommunication components that enable the Internet service server 300 totransmit data to and receive data from the cellular modem device and/orother devices. The Internet service server 300 may be accessed via thedevice hardware 308. The device hardware 308 may include an additionaluser interface, data communication, or data storage hardware. Forexample, the user interface may include a data output device (e.g.,visual display, audio speakers), and one or more data input devices. Thedata input devices may include but are not limited to, combinations ofone or more keypads, keyboards, mouse devices, touch screens that acceptgestures, microphones, voice or speech recognition devices, and anyother suitable devices.

The memory 306 may be implemented using computer-readable media, such ascomputer storage media. Computer-readable media includes, at least, twotypes of computer-readable media, namely computer storage media andcommunications media. Computer storage media includes volatile andnon-volatile, removable, and non-removable media implemented in anymethod or technology for storage of information such ascomputer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, orother data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM,ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digitalversatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes,magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices,or any other non-transmission medium that can be used to storeinformation for access by a computing device. In contrast, communicationmedia may embody computer-readable instructions, data structures,program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as acarrier wave, or other transmission mechanisms.

The one or more processors 304 may implement a customer managementplatform 310 to adjust the subscription plans for the Internet servicesbased on received subscription plan change requests, such as thesubscription plan change request 120 of FIG. 1 , from the cellular modemdevice. In one embodiment, the customer management platform 310 mayinclude a request manager module 312 and a subscription plan adjustermodule 314. The modules may include routines, program instructions,objects, and/or data structures that perform particular tasks orimplement particular abstract data types. Further, the customermanagement platform 310 may access a threshold value database 316, asubscription plan change option database 318, and a database 320 inadjusting the subscription plans for the Internet service. In oneembodiment, the customer management platform 310 may adjust thesubscription plans for the Internet services based on the receivedsubscription plan change requests from the cellular modem devices.Alternatively, the customer management platform 310 may initiate andperform the adjustments on its own by using the cellular modem devicesas instruments for displaying information and/or other communicationthat relates to the management of the subscription plans.

The request manager module 312 may process the subscription plan changerequest that can be received from the cellular modem device. Onefunctionality of the request manager module 312 is to verify the sourceof the subscription plan change request. For example, the requestmanager module 312 may use the device identification of the sendingcellular modem device to verify whether the device identification isassociated with the subscription plan to be adjusted. In this example,the request manager module 312 may utilize the database 320 in verifyingthe device identification and other information in the receivedsubscription plan change request. Another functionality of the requestmanager module 312 is to queue the received subscription plan changerequests according to the time that they were received.

Alternatively, in a case where the Internet service server 300 ismanaging the subscription plan, the customer management platform 310 maycontrol the communicating of the subscription plan change requests fromthe cellular modem devices. In one example, the customer managementplatform 310 may request a particular cellular modem device tocommunicate the subscription plan change request that is received fromthe subscriber. In another example, the customer management platform 310may use a subscriber profile to identify the possible plan changerequest that may be selected by the subscriber. The subscriber profilemay include the preferences entered by the subscriber in a user profileupon purchase of a subscription plan from the Internet service provider.

The subscription plan adjuster module 314 may be configured to adjustthe one or more features of the subscription plan based upon theverified subscription plan change request from the request managermodule 312. The adjustments in the one or more features may includeupgrading to the higher download speed limit, increasing the amount ofdata to be downloaded, and so on. Following the adjustments in thesubscription plan, the subscription plan adjuster module 314 mayretrieve new plan parameter thresholds from the threshold value database316 and associate these new plan parameter thresholds to the adjustedsubscription plan. Another functionality of the subscription planadjuster module 314 is to supply one or more preconfigured subscriptionplan change options to the cellular modem device. For example, thesubscription plan adjuster module 314 may retrieve the preconfiguredsubscription plan change options from the subscription plan changeoption database 318 and send the preconfigured subscription plan changeoptions to the cellular modem device.

The threshold value database 316 may store the plan parameter thresholdsfor each of the usage parameter measurements in the cellular modemdevice. In an embodiment, the stored plan parameter thresholds may besupplied to the cellular modem device to be used for comparisons withthe obtained usage parameter measurements. Alternatively, in a casewhere the Internet service server 300 is managing the subscription plan,the subscription plan adjuster module 314 may utilize the plan parameterthresholds that are retrieved from the threshold value database 316 forcomparison with stored usage parameter measurements in the database 320.In this regard, the comparison is performed in the Internet serviceserver 300. The plan parameter thresholds may include the upper andlower download bandwidth utilization measurement thresholds, upper andlower upload bandwidth utilization measurement thresholds, the downloaddata cap for a billing period, and/or the upload data cap for thebilling period.

The download bandwidth utilization measurement threshold may includedifferent levels of download speed limit. In one example, the processor304 in conjunction with the customer management platform 310 maypreconfigure different tiers of the download bandwidth utilizationmeasurement thresholds. Further, the processor 304 may preconfiguredifferent subscription plan change options that correspond to thesedifferent tiers of download bandwidth utilization measurementthresholds. For example, two levels (90% and 70%) of upper downloadbandwidth utilization measurement thresholds, instead of one, are usedas references for the upgrading of the download speed limit. When theaverage download speed over a predetermined time period, for example,exceeds a first upper download bandwidth utilization measurementthreshold of 90%, then the corresponding subscription plan change optionmay include upgrading to a first download speed limit. However, when theaverage download speed over the predetermined time period, for example,exceeds a second upper download bandwidth utilization measurementthreshold of 70%, then the corresponding subscription plan change optionmay include upgrading to a second download speed limit.

The upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold may also includedifferent levels of upload speed limit. In one example, the processor304 in conjunction with the customer management platform 310 maysimilarly preconfigure different tiers of the upload bandwidthutilization measurement thresholds. Further, the processor 304 maypreconfigure different subscription plan change options that correspondto these different tiers of upload bandwidth utilization measurementthresholds.

The subscription plan change option database 318 may store thepreconfigured subscription plan change options for differentsubscription plans. In one example, the customer management platform 310may send to the cellular modem device the preconfigured subscriptionplan change options for each of the subscription plans. Alternatively,in a case where the Internet service server is performing the managementof the subscription plans, customer management platform 310 may accessthe subscription plan change options from the subscription plan changeoption database 318.

The database 320 may store the received usage parameter measurementsfrom the cellular modem device, details of the subscription plans, userprofile of the subscribers, and other data that relate to theadjustments of the subscription plans. For example, database 320 maystore user profile information for each one of the subscribers, thedevice identifications of the connected user devices, the geolocationsof the requesting cellular modem devices, and so on.

Accordingly, the Internet service server 300 may perform the adjustmentsin the subscription plan based upon the subscription plan change requestfrom the cellular modem device. Alternatively, the Internet serviceserver 300 may initiate and perform the overall process of managing thesubscriptions plans by using the cellular device and/or user device asinput and/or output devices for presentation and/or to communicateinformation to the subscriber.

Example User Interface

FIG. 4 shows an example configuration interface 400 displayed on thecellular modem device for configuring the cellular modem device torequest adjustments in the subscription plans. In some embodiments, theconfiguration interface 400 may be a touch display screen that isconfigured to display information and virtual selection options. In suchembodiments, the configuration interface 400 may present a downloadspeed limit indicator light bar 402 that represents a download bandwidthutilization measurement within a predetermined time period, an uploadspeed limit indicator light bar 404 that represents an upload bandwidthutilization measurement within the predetermined time period, a datadownload cap indicator light bar 406 that represents an amount of datadownloaded for a current billing period, and a data upload cap indicatorlight bar 408 that represents an amount of data uploaded for the currentbilling period. The configuration interface 400 further shows buttonselection options 412, 414, 416, and 418 for the indicator light bars402, 404, 406, and 408, respectively.

In one example, the download speed limit indicator light bar 402 mayshow flashing lights 430 to indicate that the download bandwidthutilization measurement within the predetermined time period hasexceeded the corresponding plan parameter threshold. In this example,the subscriber may use the button selection option 412 to request anadjustment in the subscription plan. The adjustment may correspond toupgrading or downgrading of the download speed limit. In anotherexample, the data download cap indicator light bar 406 may show blinkinglights 440 to indicate that the amount of data downloaded for thecurrent billing period has exceeded the data download cap. In thisexample, the subscriber may use the button selection option 416 torequest an adjustment in the subscription plan that can correspond topurchasing of additional download data cap for the current billingperiod.

Alternatively, the configuration interface 400 may include screenbuttons (not shown) for reviewing of the subscription plan, viewingsubscription plan change options, and/or presenting options ofconnecting to the user devices such as the smart television, smartspeaker, and/or the smartphone. In other embodiments, the configurationinterface 400 may be replaced with a hardware interface that is equippedwith physical lights and/or physical buttons. In such embodiments, thephysical lights and/or the physical buttons may perform identical orsimilar functions as those virtual lights and buttons displayed by thetouch display screen version of the configuration interface 400.

Example Processes

FIGS. 5-9 present illustrative processes 500-900 for using the cellularmodem device to adjust the subscription plan. Each of the processes500-900 is illustrated as a collection of blocks in a logical flowchart, which represents a sequence of operations that can be implementedin hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In the context ofsoftware, the blocks represent computer-executable instructions that,when executed by one or more processors, perform the recited operations.Generally, computer-executable instructions may include routines,programs, objects, components, data structures, and the like thatperform particular functions or implement particular abstract datatypes. The order in which the operations are described is not intendedto be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described blockscan be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement theprocess. For discussion purposes, the processes 500-900 are describedwith reference to the architecture 100 of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of an example process 500 for the cellularmodem device to manage the subscription plan. At block 502, the cellularmodem device 200 may store one or more plan parameter thresholds thatare associated with a subscription plan during a current billing period.The plan parameter thresholds may be supplied by the Internet serviceserver and can include a preconfigured limit for each of the usageparameter measurements. In one example, the threshold value module 222may store the plan parameter thresholds received from the Internetservice server. Following an adjustment of the subscription plan, thethreshold value module 222 may also receive corresponding new planparameter thresholds. Alternatively, the cellular modem device 200 neednot receive or store the plan parameter thresholds when the Internetservice server is doing the comparison between the obtained usageparameter measurements and the corresponding plan parameter thresholds.In these alternative embodiments, the customer management platform 310may store the plan parameter thresholds in the database 320.

At block 504, the cellular modem device 200 may monitor an Internetservice usage including at least one usage parameter measurement for theone or more plan parameter thresholds during a current billing period.Alternatively, the cellular modem device 200 may transmit the obtainedat least one usage parameter measurement to the Internet serviceprovider for storage and/or further processing by the customermanagement platform 310.

At block 506, the cellular modem device 200 may compare a usageparameter measurement with a corresponding plan parameter threshold ofthe subscription plan. In one example, the subscription managementapplication 220 may retrieve the obtained usage parameter measurementsfrom the data storage 230 and compare each of the obtained usagemeasurements with the corresponding plan parameter threshold. In analternative case where the Internet service server is managing thesubscription plan, the customer management platform 310 may retrieve theusage parameter measurements from the database 320 and compare each ofthe obtained usage measurements with the corresponding plan parameterthreshold. The usage parameter measurements in the database 320 may bereceived from the cellular modem device 200.

At block 508, the cellular modem device 200 may present one or morepreconfigured subscription plan change options via a user interface ofthe cellular modem device based at least on a comparison between theusage parameter measurement and the corresponding plan parameterthreshold. In one example, the cellular modem device 200 may receive andstore the subscription plan change options from the Internet serviceserver. In an alternative case where the Internet service server ismanaging the subscription plan, the customer management platform 310 maysend the one or more preconfigured subscription plan change optionsincluding an instruction to the cellular modem device to present thesubscription plan change options to the subscriber. The subscriptionplan change options to be presented may be based upon the comparisonthat can be performed by the Internet service server on the received atleast one usage parameter measurement and the corresponding planparameter threshold.

At block 510, the cellular modem device 200 may receive a selection of apreconfigured subscription plan change option via the user interface ofthe cellular modem device. Alternatively, the cellular modem device 200may send the selection to the Internet service server for furtherprocessing. Particularly, in an alternative case where the Internetservice server is managing the subscription plan, the customermanagement platform 310 may use the selection to adjust thecorresponding feature in the subscription plan of the subscriber.

At block 512, the cellular modem device 200 may send a subscription planchange request that corresponds to a selected subscription plan changeoption to the wireless carrier network to adjust the subscription planof the subscriber. In one example, the subscription plan change requestmay include the device identification of the sending cellular modemdevice, the feature to be adjusted, and/or the like. In an alternativecase where the Internet service server is managing the subscriptionplan, the customer management platform 310 may receive and use thesubscription plan change request to adjust the subscription plan of thesubscriber.

At block 514, the cellular modem device 200 may receive a notificationfor an adjustment of the subscription plan by the wireless carriernetwork. In response to receiving of the subscription plan changerequest from the cellular modem device 200, the Internet service servermay adjust the subscription plan and send the notification to thecellular modem device 200. In a case where the Internet service serveris managing the subscription plan, the customer management platform 310may send the notification and a corresponding instruction for thecellular modem device to display the notification to the subscriber.

At block 516, the cellular modem device 200 may receive one or more newplan parameter thresholds that correspond to the adjustments in thesubscription plan from the Internet service server. In one example, theplan parameter thresholds for the adjusted subscription plan may beupdated with the new one or more plan parameter thresholds. In analternative case where the Internet service server is managing thesubscription plan, the customer management platform 310 may store thenew plan parameter thresholds in the database 320.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an example process 600 for adjusting thedownload speed limit of the subscription plan based upon a comparisonbetween the download bandwidth utilization measurement and the upper orlower download bandwidth utilization measurement threshold. At block602, the cellular modem device 200 may obtain a download bandwidthutilization measurement during a predetermined time period in a currentbilling period. The download bandwidth utilization measurement mayinclude an average download speed that is measured by the cellular modemdevice 200 within the predetermined time period in the current billingperiod.

At block 604, the cellular modem device 200 may determine whether theobtained download bandwidth utilization measurement is greater than anupper download bandwidth utilization measurement threshold. At decisionblock 606, if the obtained download bandwidth utilization measurement isgreater than the upper download bandwidth utilization measurementthreshold, then the process may proceed to block 608. At block 608, thecellular modem device 200 may present one or more subscription planchange options for upgrading to a first new subscription plan with ahigher download speed limit.

Returning to decision block 606, if the obtained download bandwidthutilization measurement is lower than the upper download bandwidthutilization measurement threshold, then the process may proceed to block610. At block 610, the cellular modem device 200 may determine whetherthe download bandwidth utilization measurement is less than a lowerdownload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold.

At decision block 612, if the download bandwidth utilization measurementis less than the lower download bandwidth utilization measurementthreshold, then the process may proceed to block 614. At block 614, thecellular modem device 200 may present one or more subscription planchange options for downgrading to a second new subscription plan with alower download speed limit.

Returning to the decision block 612, if the download bandwidthutilization measurement is higher than the lower download bandwidthutilization measurement threshold, then the process may proceed to block602 where the cellular modem device 200 may obtain another downloadbandwidth utilization measurement.

FIG. 7 is a is a flow diagram of an example process 700 for adjustingthe upload speed limit of the subscription plan based upon a comparisonbetween the upload bandwidth utilization measurement and the upper orlower upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold. At block 702,the cellular modem device 200 obtains an upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement during a predetermined time period in a current billingperiod. At block 704, the cellular modem device 200 determines whetheran obtained upload bandwidth utilization measurement is greater than anupper upload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold.

At decision block 706, if the obtained upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement is greater than the upper upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement threshold, then the process may proceed to block 708. Atblock 708, the cellular modem device 200 may present one or moresubscription plan change options for upgrading to a first newsubscription plan with a higher upload speed limit.

Returning to decision block 706, if the obtained upload bandwidthutilization measurement is lower than the upper upload bandwidthutilization measurement threshold, then the process may proceed to block710. At block 710, the cellular modem device 200 may determine whetherthe upload bandwidth utilization measurement is less than a lower uploadbandwidth utilization measurement threshold.

At decision block 712, if the upload bandwidth utilization measurementis less than the lower upload bandwidth utilization measurementthreshold, then the process may proceed to block 714. At block 714, thecellular modem device 200 may present one or more subscription planchange options for downgrading to a second new subscription plan with alower upload speed limit.

Returning to the decision block 712, if the upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement is higher than the lower upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement threshold, then the process may proceed to block 702 wherethe cellular modem device 200 may obtain another upload bandwidthutilization measurement.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of an example process 800 for purchasing anadditional data download amount based upon a comparison between anaverage daily data download amount and an available daily data downloadamount during a current billing period. At block 802, the cellular modemdevice 200 may measure an average daily data download amount during acurrent billing period. In one example, the average daily data downloadamount is the current total amount of data downloaded during the currentbilling period divided by the number of days elapsed in the currentbilling period.

At block 804, the cellular modem device 200 may measure an availabledaily data download amount during the current billing period. Forexample, the available daily data download amount is the download datacap for the current billing period divided by a total number of days inthe current billing period.

At block 806, the cellular modem device 200 may determine whether theaverage daily data download amount is greater than the available dailydata download amount during the current billing period.

At decision block 808, if the average daily data download amount isgreater than the available daily data download amount during the currentbilling period, then the process proceeds to block 810. At block 810,the cellular modem device 200 may purchase an additional data downloadamount for the current billing period. Further, at block 812, thecellular modem device 200 may purchase a higher download data cap forthe next billing period.

Returning to the decision block 808, if the average daily data downloadamount is less than the available daily data download amount during thecurrent billing period, then the process proceeds to block 802.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of an example process 900 for the cellularmodem device to manage the subscription plan. At block 902, the cellularmodem device 200 may store one or more plan parameter thresholds thatare associated with a subscription plan during a current billing period.In an alternative case where the Internet service server is doing theoverall process of managing the subscription plan, the cellular modemdevice 200 need not receive and/or store the plan parameter thresholdsfrom the Internet service server. In these alternative embodiments, thecustomer management platform 310 may store the plan parameter thresholdsin the database 320.

At block 904, the cellular modem device 200 may monitor an Internetservice usage including at least one usage parameter measurement for theone or more plan parameter thresholds during the current billing period.Alternatively, the cellular modem device 200 may transmit the obtainedat least one usage parameter measurement to the Internet serviceprovider for storage and/or further processing by the customermanagement platform 310.

At block 906, the cellular modem device 200 may compare a usageparameter measurement with a corresponding plan parameter threshold ofthe subscription plan. In an alternative case where the Internet serviceserver is doing the overall process of managing the subscription plan,the customer management platform 310 may retrieve the usage parametermeasurements from the database 320 and compare each of the obtainedusage measurements with the corresponding plan parameter threshold. Theusage parameter measurements in the database 320 may be received fromthe cellular modem device 200.

At block 908, the cellular modem device 200 may present, via a userdevice, one or more preconfigured subscription plan change options basedat least on a comparison between the usage parameter measurement and thecorresponding plan parameter threshold. In one example, the cellularmodem device 102 may be communicatively connected with the user device,such as the smart television 110, smart speaker 112, and/or smartphone114. In this example, the subscription plan change options may bedisplayed via the smart television 110, smart speaker 112, and/orsmartphone 114. In an alternative case where the Internet service serveris managing the subscription plan, the customer management platform 310may send the one or more preconfigured subscription plan change optionsincluding an instruction to the cellular modem device to present thesubscription plan change options via the connected user device. Thesubscription plan change options to be presented may be based upon thecomparison performed by the Internet service server between the receivedat least one usage parameter measurement and the corresponding planparameter threshold.

At block 910, the cellular modem device 200 may receive, via the userdevice, a selection of a preconfigured subscription plan change option.Alternatively, the Internet service server may request the cellularmodem device 200 to utilize the user device for receiving of theselection from the subscriber. The Internet service server may alsorequest the cellular modem device 200 to communicate the selection. Inone example, the Internet service server may use the selection to adjustthe corresponding feature in the subscription plan of the subscriber.

At block 912, the cellular modem device 200 may send a subscription planchange request that corresponds to a selected subscription plan changeoption to the wireless carrier network to adjust the subscription plan.In an alternative case where the Internet service server is managing thesubscription plan, the customer management platform 310 may receive anduse the subscription plan change request to adjust the subscription planof the subscriber.

At block 914, the cellular modem device 200 may receive a notificationfor an adjustment of the subscription plan of the subscriber to a newsubscription plan by the wireless carrier network. In response toreceiving of the subscription plan change request from the cellularmodem device 200, the Internet service server may adjust thesubscription plan and send the notification to the cellular modem device200. In a case where the Internet service server is managing thesubscription plan, the customer management platform 310 may send thenotification and a corresponding instruction for the cellular modemdevice to display the notification, via the connected user device, tothe subscriber.

At block 916, the cellular modem device 200 may present, via the userdevice, the notification for the adjustment of the subscription plan ofthe subscriber. Alternatively, the Internet service server may send aninstruction for the cellular modem device to display the notification,via the connected user device, to the subscriber.

Conclusion

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific tostructural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understoodthat the subject matter defined in the appended claims is notnecessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather,the specific features and acts are disclosed as exemplary forms ofimplementing the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-implemented method, comprising:storing, at a cellular modem device, one or more plan parameterthresholds associated with an in-home Internet service subscription planof a subscriber during a current billing period, the in-home Internetservice subscription plan is for using Internet service from a wirelesscarrier network via the cellular modem device; monitoring, at thecellular modem device, an Internet service usage during the currentbilling period that includes at least one usage parameter measurementfor the one or more plan parameter thresholds; comparing a usageparameter measurement with a corresponding plan parameter threshold ofthe in-home Internet service subscription plan; presenting one or morepreconfigured subscription plan change options via a user interface ofthe cellular modem device based at least on a comparison between theusage parameter measurement and the corresponding plan parameterthreshold, wherein the presenting includes presenting one or moresubscription plan change options for downgrading to a new in-homeInternet service subscription plan with a lower upload speed limit whena comparison indicates that an upload bandwidth utilization measurementduring a predetermined time period is lower than a lower uploadbandwidth utilization measurement threshold; receiving a selection of apreconfigured subscription plan change option through the user interfaceof the cellular modem device; and sending, from the cellular modemdevice, a subscription plan change request that corresponds to aselected subscription plan change option to the wireless carrier networkto adjust the in-home Internet service subscription plan of thesubscriber.
 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein theone or more plan parameter thresholds include at least one of an upperupload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold, the lower uploadbandwidth utilization measurement threshold, or an upload data cap forthe current billing period.
 3. The computer-implemented method of claim2, wherein the at least one usage parameter measurement includes atleast one of the upload bandwidth utilization measurement during thepredetermined time period, or a current total amount of data uploadedduring the current billing period.
 4. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 3, wherein the presenting includes presenting the one or moresubscription plan change options for upgrading to a new in-home Internetservice subscription plan with a higher upload speed limit when thecomparison indicates that the upload bandwidth utilization measurementduring the predetermined time period exceeded the upper upload bandwidthutilization measurement threshold.
 5. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 3, wherein the presenting includes presenting the one or moresubscription plan change options for downgrading to a new in-homeInternet service subscription plan with a lower upload speed limit whenthe comparison indicates that the upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement during the predetermined time period is lower than the lowerupload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold.
 6. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 3, wherein the presenting includespresenting one or more subscription plan change options to purchase anadditional data upload amount when the comparison indicates that anaverage daily data upload amount exceeds an available daily data uploadamount during the current billing period, wherein the average daily dataupload amount is the current total amount of data uploaded during thecurrent billing period divided by a number of days elapsed in thecurrent billing period, and the available daily data upload amount isthe upload data cap for the current billing period divided by a totalnumber of days in the current billing period.
 7. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 6, wherein the presenting includespresenting a subscription plan change option to purchase a new In-homeInternet service subscription plan that includes a higher upload datacap for a next billing period when the comparison indicates that theaverage daily data upload amount exceeds the available daily data uploadamount during the current billing period.
 8. The computer-implementedmethod of claim 1 further comprising: preconfiguring differentsubscription plan change options based on different tiers of uploadbandwidth utilization measurement thresholds.
 9. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 8, wherein the different tiersinclude two levels of upper upload bandwidth utilization measurementthresholds.
 10. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, furthercomprising: receiving, in response to the subscription plan changerequest, a notification for an adjustment of the in-home Internetservice subscription plan of the subscriber to a new in-home Internetservice subscription plan by the wireless carrier network at thecellular modem device; and presenting, via the user interface of thecellular modem device, the notification for the adjustment of thein-home Internet service subscription plan of the subscriber.
 11. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 10, wherein the receiving thenotification for the adjustment includes receiving, at the cellularmodem device, one or more new plan parameter thresholds of the newin-home Internet subscription plan that corresponds to the selectedsubscription plan change option, further comprising: comparing, at thecellular modem device, each of the one or more usage parametermeasurements with a corresponding new plan parameter threshold of thenew in-home Internet service subscription plan; and presenting, via theuser interface of the cellular modem device, one or more additionalpreconfigured subscription plan change options via the user interface ofthe cellular modem device based at least on an additional comparisonbetween the usage parameter measurement and the corresponding new planparameter threshold.
 12. The computer-implemented method of claim 10,wherein the selected subscription plan change option corresponds toselecting a use of a new in-home Internet subscription plan for aparticular time duration, further comprising: receiving a notificationof a reversion back to the in-home Internet service subscription planfrom the wireless carrier network following a lapse of the particulartime duration; and presenting, via the user interface of the cellularmodem device, the notification of the reversion back to the in-homeInternet service subscription plan.
 13. A system, comprising: one ormore processors; and memory including a plurality of computer-executablecomponents that are executable by the one or more processors to performa plurality of actions, the plurality of actions comprising: storing oneor more plan parameter thresholds associated with an in-home Internetservice subscription plan of a subscriber during a current billingperiod, the in-home Internet service subscription plan is for usingInternet service from a wireless carrier network via a cellular modemdevice; monitoring an Internet service usage during the current billingperiod by receiving at least one usage parameter measurement for the oneor more plan parameter thresholds; comparing each of the at least oneusage parameter measurement with a corresponding plan parameterthreshold of the in-home Internet service subscription plan; providingone or more preconfigured subscription plan change options to thecellular modem device for presentation via a user interface of thecellular modem device or a user device that is communicatively connectedto the cellular modem device based at least on a comparison between eachof the at least one usage parameter measurement and the correspondingplan parameter threshold; wherein the providing includes presenting oneor more subscription plan change options for downgrading to a newin-home Internet service subscription plan with a lower upload speedlimit when a comparison indicates that an upload bandwidth utilizationmeasurement during a predetermined time period is lower than a lowerupload bandwidth utilization measurement threshold; receiving aselection of a preconfigured subscription plan change option through theuser interface of the cellular modem device; and sending, from thecellular modem device, a subscription plan change request thatcorresponds to a selected subscription plan change option to thewireless carrier network to adjust the in-home Internet servicesubscription plan of the subscriber.
 14. The system of claim 13, whereinthe providing includes providing the one or more preconfiguredsubscription plan change options for upgrading to a new in-home Internetservice subscription plan with a higher upload speed limit when thecomparison indicates that an upload bandwidth utilization measurementduring a predetermined time period exceeded an upper upload bandwidthutilization measurement threshold.
 15. The system of claim 13, whereinthe at least one usage parameter measurement includes at least one ofthe upload bandwidth utilization measurement during the predeterminedtime period, or a current total amount of data uploaded during thecurrent billing period.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein thepresenting includes the presenting a subscription plan change option topurchase a new In-home Internet service subscription plan that includesa higher upload data cap for a next billing period when the comparisonindicates that the average daily data upload amount exceeds theavailable daily data upload amount during the current billing period.17. The system of claim 13, wherein the plurality of actions furthercomprise: preconfiguring different subscription plan change optionsbased on different tiers of upload bandwidth utilization measurementthresholds.
 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the different tiersinclude two levels of upper upload bandwidth utilization measurementthresholds
 19. One or more non-transitory computer-readable media of acellular modem device storing computer-executable instructions that uponexecution cause the cellular modem device to perform acts comprising:storing one or more plan parameter thresholds associated with an in-homeInternet service subscription plan of a subscriber during a currentbilling period, the in-home Internet service subscription plan is forusing Internet service from a wireless carrier network via the cellularmodem device; monitoring an Internet service usage during the currentbilling period that includes at least one usage parameter measurementfor the one or more plan parameter thresholds; comparing a usageparameter measurement with a corresponding plan parameter threshold ofthe in-home Internet service subscription plan; presenting, via a userinterface of a user device that is communicatively connected to thecellular modem device, one or more preconfigured subscription planchange options based at least on a comparison between the usageparameter measurement and the corresponding plan parameter threshold;wherein the presenting includes presenting one or more subscription planchange options for downgrading to a new in-home Internet servicesubscription plan with a lower upload speed limit when a comparisonindicates that an upload bandwidth utilization measurement during apredetermined time period is lower than a lower upload bandwidthutilization measurement threshold; receiving a selection of apreconfigured subscription plan change option through the user interfaceof the cellular modem device; sending, from the cellular modem device, asubscription plan change request that corresponds to a selectedsubscription plan change option to the wireless carrier network toadjust the in-home Internet service subscription plan of the subscriber;receiving a notification for an adjustment of the in-home Internetservice subscription plan of the subscriber by the wireless carriernetwork at the cellular modem device; and presenting, via the userdevice, the notification for the adjustment of the in-home Internetservice subscription plan of the subscriber.
 20. The one or morenon-transitory computer-readable media of claim 19, wherein the userdevice is a smart speaker, a smart television, or a smartphone.